11 largest freshwater fish: Arapaima

11 largest freshwater fish in the world

Arapaima

Found in the Amazon river, these giant fish are as ancient as they are large. Capable of growing to a length in excess of 10 feet, Arapaima have been around since the Miocene, and are considered living fossils.

These fish are also incredible leapers, and can propel themselves above the water if they feel threatened. Unfortunately, record-sized arapaima are difficult to come by today since they are so widely hunted.